I'm thinking of upgrading my 12 year old son from a TRX90, and need info regarding the 250X. What I'm looking for is general info about this quad, such as the engine, tranny, best model year to buy, and anything else I need to know before buying one. Also, what is everyone's opinion about a 12 year old being able to ride/handle this machine. FYI, he's about 5'3" and 90 lbs, and is getting a little too big for the TRX90. His riding skills right now don't include being able to ride a machine with a clutch though, so they're be a learning curve as he gets adjusted to a manual transmission. Anyway, please post your opinions or thoughts...

 

In my opinion, the 250x is a great beginers bike. It is basically 300ex with no electric start and a shorter stroke on the crankshaft. The trx250x was made from '87-'92. The 87's had problems with the frame cracking by the motor mount, and losing the 3rd gear (I think). Other than that, this bike is bulletproof. As for the age thing, it's for you to decide. Is he mature enough, and can he physically handle it? I think the recommendations are laughable, I'm 14, and if I tried to ride a 90, I would crush it!

 

As you probably know Honda does not recommend the 250X/300EX for riders under 16. However I have seen younger riders that handle these quads with no problems. This is something you have to judge for yourself. The 250X is a great quad, they were built from 87-92. There have been problems with transmissions in the 87 but I had a 87 and never had a problem. I have found that kids adapt the the clutch fairly quickly so if you son has some seat time on a quad I really doubt this will be a problems. I started by daughter at 13 on a 300EX, her first quad. She adapted real quick to the clutch and has had no problems. There is very little differnce between the 250X and 300EX as far as frame, shocks, ect. The 300EX does have a little more power, but most of all has an electric starter. You can probably find a used 300EX for little or no more money than a nice use 250X, so you might consider that option.
One rule I have with my kids is: NO riding without a helmet, no exceptions, not even, period!
They have been good about this and have learned from experience that this is something that needs to be done. The helmets have saved their noggins a many a time.
Good Luck and have fun!
REX

 

I was 7 when I started riding a 250x and I could handle it fine. And that was when I was short a scrony, now im 15, 6'3,185 lbs. and it stil fits me just fine. the way i learned to drive a clutch was me an my dad would both get on the 250x and i would watch to see how he worked the clutch.the only problems i have really had is the front wheel bearings. now that im more experienced i can make it wheelie,jump, and climb hills and feel very comforatable. there could, fun reliable atv's. and look out for the lock nut on the rear axle housing, it has come loose on me before and let in water an chewed up the bearings. my suggestion is to get to get a lock nut from durablew